Mzwandile Stick embraces the 'Hollywood buzz' but insists Springboks will keep their focus
Mzwandile Stick believes the social media banter and intense atmosphere surrounding the Springboks' showdown with the All Blacks is exactly what world rugby needs.
Springboks assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has embraced the Hollywood buzz surrounding the upcoming Rugby World Cup opener against the All Blacks but insists the Boks will maintain their focus on the pitch. With Ellis Park sold out and the four-Test series generating significant interest in both South Africa and New Zealand, Stick finds the atmosphere around the contest to be a great build-up for a game.
He believes the hype adds to the excitement of rugby and that the team treats every Test match the same in terms of preparation.
Stick enjoyed the social media banter surrounding the rivalry and sees it as part of what makes the occasion special. However, he emphasizes that the main focus for the team remains their preparation for the upcoming match. He recalls watching great Springbok-All Blacks battles as a youngster, which inspired a generation of South Africans to fall in love with the game. Stick says representing his country is a blessing, and the team is excited and looking forward to the upcoming four Test matches.
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